Powerful gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced officials to halt over 100 flights, as reported by local media.
The winds are affecting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in central regions encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been urged to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, although authorities say that energy was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have stated that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a woman was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a intensive burst, in a event that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "significant labor action", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for concern about forest fires.
